URGENT: Marva Needs Extensive Surgery to Remove Metal Wire Lodged In Her Chest

We did not pull Mama Marva and her puppies directly from the shelter — but when we were urgently asked to help, we stepped in.

Mama Marva was showing distressing and concerning symptoms, and we knew she needed immediate medical care. We got her to the vet as quickly as possible, expecting answers — but what we discovered was both unexpected and heartbreaking.

During diagnostics, veterinarians found a metal wire approximately 2–3 inches long penetrating into her chest cavity, which had caused a serious abscess. Because the wire had been there for an undetermined amount of time, there is a high risk of infection spreading. And as if that weren’t enough, X-rays also revealed multiple healed wounds and bullet fragments throughout her body, indicating she has survived significant trauma in her past.

To safely treat and remove the metal wire, which is the largest threat, Mama Marva now requires:

\- A CT scan to fully map the wire’s position and assess internal damage; and - A thoracotomy, which is a major chest surgery where the chest cavity is carefully opened so the surgeon can remove the wire and thoroughly clean and contain the abscess

Her chest surgery is critical to prevent the abscess from rupturing and causing a life-threatening systemic infection. However, the total cost of Marva's life-saving care will be exorbitant, with this surgery running well over ten thousand dollars alone.

If you can spare even a few dollars, it genuinely helps. Marva survived the worst of humanity—now she deserves the best of it. 💛

1/16/26 Update

Our sweet Mama Marva is finally home.

After everything she has endured, she was able to leave the hospital and is now resting comfortably with her wonderful medical foster. We’re happy to share that she is doing incredibly well, and her surgeon is very pleased with how she is healing following her thoracotomy, partial lung lobectomy, and spay.

Marva underwent major surgery to remove the wire from her chest cavity and two damaged lower lung lobes. During the procedure, the surgical team made a devastating discovery: the wire was actually a piece of a coat hanger. This finding strongly suggests that Marva’s injury was inflicted intentionally, making her survival all the more remarkable.

Despite the cruelty she has endured, Marva remains incredibly sweet, gentle, and resilient. Her strength continues to amaze everyone who meets her, and she has shown us just how much fight she has left.

During her pre-operative full-body CT scan, the surgeon also identified a congenital heart defect known as PRAA, which will require additional surgery in the future. While Marva’s journey is far from over, she is surrounded by love, expert medical care, and an entire community cheering her on.

If you’re able to help, please consider donating toward Marva’s ongoing care. Her recent emergency surgery and hospitalization were extensive, and she will need additional heart surgery and continued medical support in the months ahead. Every contribution—no matter the size—helps cover lifesaving treatment and gives Marva the chance to continue healing in safety and comfort.